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Big Mac Pasta Salad

A flavorful twist on the classic Big Mac, this pasta salad combines seasoned ground beef, crunchy lettuce, creamy dressing, and vibrant colors for a satisfying dish perfect for summer gatherings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Main Course, Salad
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pasta Base
  • 2 cups elbow macaroni
Protein
  • 1 lb ground beef Choose grass-fed for richer flavor.
Cheese
  • 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded Opt for sharp cheddar for a robust and tangy bite.
Vegetables
  • 1 cup pickles, chopped
  • 2 cups lettuce, shredded
Dressing
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • to taste Salt and pepper

Method
 

Cooking the Pasta
  1. Bring a pot of salted water to boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Preparing the Beef
  1. In a heavy-bottomed cast iron skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Drain excess fat.
Mixing the Salad Base
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked elbow macaroni, browned ground beef, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped pickles, and shredded lettuce. Stir gently to combine.
Making the Dressing
  1. In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Combining and Chilling
  1. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture, tossing until evenly coated. Cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.

Notes

Serve in vibrant bowls garnished with extra cheddar or pickles. This salad shines at picnics and summer gatherings.